Dubai: The UAE is set to welcome 2026 with fireworks, celebrations — and different types of official New Year holidays for residents across the country. While January 1 has been confirmed as a public holiday nationwide, how residents enjoy the break will vary depending on their sector and emirate.
Although some residents had hoped for a transferred holiday to create a longer break, official announcements confirm that January 1, 2026, will be observed as is. Still, several options exist for extended time off through remote work, long weekends, or annual leave planning.
January 1 Public Holiday
Private sector employees in the UAE will receive a paid public holiday on Thursday, January 1, 2026, as confirmed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). The decision follows a Cabinet resolution outlining official holidays for both public and private sectors.
While New Year’s Day is among holidays eligible for transfer to another date, most residents will return to work on Friday, January 2, unless their employer announces otherwise.
One Day Off, Followed by Remote Work
Federal government employees will also observe January 1, 2026, as a public holiday. In addition, Friday, January 2, has been designated as a remote working day for federal employees, allowing them to balance professional duties with family time.
Employees whose roles require physical presence will continue to work on-site, as clarified by federal authorities.
Sharjah Public Sector: Four-Day Long Weekend
Public sector employees in Sharjah will enjoy a four-day long weekend. With January 1 falling on a Thursday and Friday already part of the emirate’s three-day weekend, work will resume on Monday, January 5, 2026, for government entities, authorities, and institutions.
Bonus Leave Options for Some Employees
Although Christmas is not an official public holiday in the UAE, many companies — particularly in finance, consulting, and technology sectors — offer internal year-end leave ranging from one day to a full week.
Some employers grant leave on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, extending year-end breaks. These internal leaves are employer-specific and do not replace annual leave entitlements.
Annual Leave Planning Opportunities
Public holidays in the UAE offer opportunities to extend breaks through annual leave. With January 1 falling on a Thursday, employees who take Friday, January 2, as annual leave can enjoy a four-day break including the weekend.
Other 2026 holidays such as Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, Hijri New Year, Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday, and UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) may also allow extended breaks through transferable dates or strategic leave planning.
Compensatory Leave for Essential Workers
Employees required to work on official public holidays are entitled to compensation under UAE Labour Law. Employers must either provide a substitute rest day or pay the regular wage for that day along with an additional 50 per cent bonus on the basic salary.
